Mauritius has a unique climate, divided into two main seasons: a hot and humid summer from November to April, and a cooler and drier austral winter from May to October. As September comes to a close, residents are wondering if the austral winter is finally coming to an end. Recent data from the Vacoas weather station provides insight into the gradual conclusion of this winter.
According to data published by the Mauritian Meteorological Service on September 20, the first half of the month was the fourth wettest in 20 years. This is surprising, given that the end of the austral winter is typically a drier period. The Plateau central received 78 mm of rain, 122% of its long-term average, between September 1 and 15.
The North region experienced the largest excess, with 43 mm of cumulative rainfall, representing 215% of normal levels. In contrast, the East received 77 mm, or 137% of its average, while the West only collected 5 mm, or 55% of its usual amount. This rainfall continues a trend observed in August, making it seem like the winter is lingering on the high plateaus.
The trade winds are gradually weakening across the island, leading to changes in temperature. While maximum temperatures on the Plateau central remain moderate, ranging from 20°C to 22°C, they reach 25°C to 27°C on coastal areas like Grand-Baie and Le Morne. Nighttime temperatures retain their winter coolness in the interior, ranging from 15°C to 17°C.
October marks the final month of the austral winter, before the onset of summer in November, which will bring high temperatures, humidity, and summer rainfall. This transitional phase is already affecting the daily habits of Mauritians. The gradual return of heat on the coast is leading to increased use of air conditioners and fans during the afternoons.
The late rains in the North and East are maintaining good soil moisture before the hot summer weather, although they are complicating some vegetable harvests on the Plateau central. The austral winter of 2026 is slowly coming to an end, giving way to the first signs of a Mauritian summer.
As the seasons transition, residents are adapting to the changing weather patterns. The use of solar water heaters is sometimes disrupted by cloud cover in areas like Curepipe and Rose-Belle. Meanwhile, the agricultural sector is dealing with the effects of the unseasonable rainfall, which is impacting crop yields and harvesting schedules.
Key points
- The first half of September was the fourth wettest in 20 years in Mauritius.
- The austral winter is expected to end in October, with summer arriving in November.
- The unusual rainfall and temperature fluctuations are affecting the daily habits of Mauritians and the agricultural sector.
